The exploration of Australia began in the early 17th century when European navigators, such as Willem Janszoon, first charted parts of the continent. The most notable early explorer was James Cook, who arrived in 1770 and claimed the eastern coast for Great Britain, naming it New South Wales. His voyages opened the door for further exploration and eventual colonization. Throughout the 19th century, explorers like John McDouall Stuart and Burke and Wills ventured into the interior, mapping uncharted territories. Their journeys contributed to the understanding of Australia's diverse landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and rivers, shaping the nation's development and settlement patterns.